Odisha Announces Free Education from KG to PG

Bhubaneswar : In a landmark announcement that could reshape the future of education in Odisha, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has declared free education from Kindergarten (KG) to Post-Graduation (PG) in all government educational institutions across the state. The initiative, unveiled during the state government's anniversary celebrations, is being hailed as one of the most ambitious welfare measures in Odisha's history. The decision reflects the government's commitment to making quality education accessible to every child, regardless of economic background. By eliminating tuition fees across all levels of public education, the state aims to ensure that financial hardship no longer stands in the way of academic aspirations. Education has long been regarded as the foundation of social and economic progress. However, many students, particularly from rural and economically weaker families, struggle to continue their studies beyond school due to rising educational expenses. The new policy seeks to address this challenge by creating a seamless educational pathway from preschool to postgraduate studies. Under the scheme, students enrolled in government-run schools, colleges, and universities will receive education free of cost. Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi emphasized the government's vision of inclusive development. "Education is the most powerful tool for empowerment. No child should be denied the opportunity to learn because of financial constraints. Our government is committed to building a future where every student can pursue higher education and achieve their dreams," he said.. The policy is expected to particularly benefit students from rural areas, tribal communities, and low-income households, where financial challenges often force children to discontinue their studies. The policy is being viewed as a significant milestone in the state's social welfare agenda and could serve as a model for other states looking to strengthen public education systems.Government officials indicated that detailed guidelines regarding implementation, funding, and institutional arrangements will be finalized in the coming weeks. As Odisha embarks on this ambitious journey, the announcement has generated widespread optimism among students, parents, educators, and policymakers alike. For many families, the dream of pursuing education without financial barriers may soon become a reality.